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The Isle of Wight International Chess Tournament is not just a showcase of incredible chess talent but also a testament to the dedication and expertise of its officials. Behind the scenes, these individuals ensure the smooth running of the event, from adjudicating games to managing the broadcasting tech. Let’s meet the team making it all happen, starting with our esteemed Chief Arbiter.
Chief Arbiter: Shohreh Bayat
Shohreh Bayat is an internationally renowned International Arbiter (IA), Woman FIDE Master (WFM), and Chess Organiser. She has achieved many "firsts" in her illustrious career, including being one of the first female Category-A IA in Asia. Now a European Arbiter, Shohreh won the prestigious 2022 FIDE Award for Best European Female Arbiter.
Shohreh’s experience as an arbiter is extensive, having officiated at world-class events such as the World Chess Olympiads in 2014, 2016, 2018, 2022, and 2024; the Women’s World Chess Championships in 2017, 2018, and 2020; the World Fischer Random Chess Championship 2024; and the World Team Rapid & Blitz Championships 2024. Additionally, she has worked at premier tournaments including Norway Chess, the London Chess Classic, Abu Dhabi Masters, Gibraltar, Hastings, and of course, the Isle of Wight.
As a player, Shohreh has also demonstrated exceptional skill, achieving 1st place at the International Maia Blitz Chess Tournament in Portugal (2023), 1st place at the Richmond Blitz Chess Championship (2022), and 2nd place at the English Online Blitz Championship (2020). She represented England in the 2021 European Team Championship.
Shohreh holds a Master’s degree in Natural Resources Engineering and has published academic articles in international journals, further exemplifying her diverse talents and dedication to excellence in all her pursuits.
Deputy Arbiter: Ravi Sandhu
Ravi Sandhu, a FIDE Arbiter based in Birmingham, brings a wealth of experience to the tournament. Ravi has served in various roles for the English Chess Federation (ECF), including Manager of Arbiters and Team Manager for the World Cadets Chess Championships in China.
As an arbiter, Ravi has officiated at prestigious events such as the British Chess Championships, the London Chess Classic, Hastings, and the Four Nations Chess League (4NCL). Known for his methodical and fair approach, Ravi is a key figure in the chess community.
Outside of chess, Ravi is a dedicated athlete, having completed the London and Leicester marathons and recently competing in Hyrox hybrid races in Birmingham and Manchester, demonstrating his commitment to personal discipline and perseverance.
Deputy Arbiter: Lance Leslie-Smith
Lance Leslie-Smith is a FIDE International Arbiter (IA), and Organiser. Based in London, he
frequently travels around the UK and internationally officiating at events. Some notable
events include the second edition of the Tech Mahindra Global Chess League, the Clash of
Blames match between Vladimir Kramnik and Jose Martinez Alcantara, London Chess Classic, Four Nations Chess League (4NCL), Hastings Congress, and the Sunway Sitges International Chess Festival.
As an organiser, he frequently organises tournaments in and around the London area with
standards up to the level of Grandmaster. His aim is to continue to support and give opportunities for the chess community to thrive.
Lance’s playing experience includes representing his home district (Ethekwini) and province (KwaZulu-Natal) at the South African national junior team championships seven times, and making it to the final stage of the national under 16 closed championships. He has continued playing competitively, with his favourite format being Blitz chess.
Apart from chess, Lance is a passionate musician currently studying a Bachelor of Music
(BMus) in performance at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, in his final year.
Live Board Operator: Richard Buxton
Richard Buxton is the English Chess Federation’s DGT Liveboards Custodian, responsible for the recording and broadcasting of live games at national chess events. His expertise has been pivotal in events like the British Chess Championships, British Rapid and Blitz Finals, and the 4NCL.
In addition to his technical role, Richard is a licensed FIDE Arbiter and plays an active role in the management and organisation of chess events, particularly in the Midlands region. His dual expertise in technology and tournament management makes him an invaluable asset to the Isle of Wight International Chess Tournament.
Arbiter: Ashok Damodaran
Ashok Damodaran is an experienced FIDE Arbiter with an impressive record of officiating at prestigious chess tournaments around the globe. Known for his professionalism and dedication to fair play, Ashok is adept at managing complex scenarios, ensuring tournaments run smoothly and efficiently.
His portfolio spans international events as well as local congresses, where he combines expertise with approachability, earning respect from players and organisers alike.
Arbiter: Derrick Walker
Based in Bristol, Derrick Walker began his arbiting journey a few years ago while accompanying his wife to chess tournaments. Since then, he has become a familiar face on the South West chess circuit and at national events like the British Chess Championships, where he completed his FIDE Arbiter’s course.
Derrick’s experience includes managing juniors during rapidplay events—a true test of an arbiter’s patience and focus—as well as officiating senior tournaments. He has also started organising and running his own tournaments, including OTB Chess 960 events, adding to his growing contributions to the chess community.
Arbiter: Iwan Cave
Iwan Cave is a young and enthusiastic National Arbiter. Most recently, he organised the highly popular 2024 Hampshire Rapidplay, showcasing his organisational talents and passion for bringing chess to a wider audience. A highly regarded player in his own right and the 2023 Hampshire Chess champion.
These dedicated officials, with their impressive expertise and commitment, are the backbone of the Isle of Wight International Chess Tournament. Whether it’s ensuring fair play, managing live game broadcasts, or organising events, their contributions are instrumental to the success of this event.
Players will get a chance to put any questions to the team at 10am on Tuesday 18th Feb, before R1 commences at 11am. Or why not come say hello at the opening drinks reception from 7pm Monday 17th.
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